Scottsdale, Arizona – A draw for classic car enthusiasts

If you are into classic cars, Scottsdale is the place to be at each winter. You’ve probably heard of the Barrett-Jackson auctions, but many don’t realize that classic car season starts in November and lasts through January. With mild temperatures, room for these upscale events and plenty of luxury resorts where you can pamper yourself, Scottsdale makes for a great winter getaway.

Each year, car enthusiasts flock to Scottsdale to experience the destination’s venerable lineup of car shows.

On Nov. 18, the Goodguys 14th Annual Southwest Nationals at WestWorld of Scottsdale kicked off the auction high season with more than 2,000 hot rods, custom, classic and muscle cars. Thousands of visitors attended the three-day showcase, which included a swap meet, special exhibits, and a model and pedal car show. Watch for this one next year.

Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auctionone of the most celebrated car auctions in the world, will return to Scottsdale Jan. 15-22, 2012 with more than 1,000 collector and special interest automobiles, along with 350 vendors and exhibitors. Also at WestWorld, this event is a must-attend for all car lovers and history buffs. Even if you don’t like classic cars, you’ll enjoy the Barrett-Jackson events. The color, design and history of some of the classics will draw you in. Add in some high-end shopping, festival food and you’ll have a great time.

Auto events continue with the Russo & Steele Collector Automobile AuctionJan. 18-22 where buyers and sellers from around the world showcase the very best in European sports, American muscle, Hot Rods and custom cars. With more than 700 cars on the auction block, Russo & Steele is one of the major players in the Scottsdale car auction scene.

New to Scottsdale this year is Bonhams, a 217-year old auction house that teamed up with The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa for its inaugural Jan. 19 event. The highly-anticipated auction will feature several rare cars, including the late Andy Warhol’s Rolls-Royce.

I’ve been to several of the Barrett-Jackson shows and have enjoyed seeing such notable cars as Carl Shelby’s Cobra Shelby, Joey Chitwood’s car and cars belonging to celebrities. Once the action starts in the auction tent, you’ll see people bidding thousands of dollars for cars, trucks and, even, classic busses. It’s a fun experience whether you think you like cars or not!